It has been a wild month traversing the shifting sands of our current global situation. Over the last few weeks we have been developing resources and connections to help you navigate the realities of owning a business this year. We speak with members daily and are inspired by how everyone is working together to make sure our pets have what they need, whether it’s keeping them fed or keeping clients safe by having to close shop until the world rights itself again.

As for us, our eight staff are working in tandem with board members to field calls and emails, as well as, wanted to let you know our priorities when it comes to supporting you and to be sure you are aware of the tools you have available.

Government and Public Campaign – Keeping Pet Products Accessible

We have spearheaded the industry effort with the governments and media to make sure pet supplies would remain accessible across the country. Most regions of Canada now have pet supplies listed as essential as part of their emergency measures plans. We will keep up the pressure on the areas yet to make pet supplies an official part of their lists. This is a huge win for everyone, most especially our animals.

Immediate Resources and Assistance for Businesses

Late last year we were excited to offer PIJAC Canada members free access to the library of business tools offered by the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) as part of your existing suite of tools. Turns out this has become more valuable that we could have imagined. The CFIB has a dedicated COVID-19 bank of helpful tools to help you steer your way through the coming weeks. Visit the COVID-19 Small Business Help Centre for additional support.

Stimulating Business

We may have cancelled our physical trade show in Vancouver this year, but not the show itself. Stay tuned for upcoming details for the Virtual Vancouver – National Pet Industry Show. We may not be able to meet in person this year, but what we can do is help keep your business moving forward. The show will be *free for exhibitors to participate in and easy for visitors to access via the PIJAC Canada website. This re-imagined event gives buyers a chance to connect with vendors, to benefit from special offers, see what’s new, shop and network from the comfort of your “office” wherever that may be.

On the international side, there is a flurry of activity going on behind the scenes. With Interzoo remaining a question mark for now and other global events working to adjust, market research is ongoing and preparations are being made for when the industry comes back on-line so we can all hit the ground running.

As challenging as this has been, the most amazing part of this whole experience is the comradery and collaboration we have as a collective group. No one is holding back, everyone is jumping in to help. Your diligence and ongoing connection with us, has made an impact on how successful we have been so far. Please keep reaching out. Tell us how you are and if there is anything we can do to help. We are proudly your Voice of the Canadian Pet Industry and we will weather this storm together.

*free – Participation in this virtual event is free for all exhibitors who had previously signed a contract for the physical 2020 Vancouver – National Pet Industry Show. Exhibitors who do not currently have a 2020 contract are welcome to join and be required to pay a small administration fee.